Five things learned as Manchester United win 1-0 vs Newcastle

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One goal was enough for Manchester United to claim all three points against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.

Patrick Dorgu scored his first goal of the season to give Manchester United a 1-0 win over the visitors from Tyneside.

Ruben Amorim had to chop and change his starting line-up with several injuries and absences, including captain Bruno Fernandes who watched from the stands.

United picked up their first win in three league matches and climbed to fifth in the Premier League table.

Man United cope without Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes’ hamstring injury means United were without their Portuguese playmaker against Newcastle.

United’s record without Fernandes is bleak, so Amorim called on his players to step up and they did.

With Fernandes linked with a move away, United may need to start planning for life without him and Amorim can take confidence from this performance.

Patrick Dorgu extends streak

Last week, Patrick Dorgu was brilliant against Aston Villa despite suffering defeat, and it seems he took confidence from that performance and brought it to Old Trafford.

Patrick Dorgu scored his first goal of the season in style, with a fierce volley past Aaron Ramsdale.

While Dorgu was signed as a specialist wing-back for Amorim’s system, he has been thriving since United transitioned to a four-at-the-back formation.

Benjamin Sesko’s drought continues

Considering that Newcastle bid for Benjamin Sesko in the summer, this Boxing Day clash was a chance for the Slovenian striker to rub salt in Eddie Howe’s wounds.

Man United beat Newcastle to Benjamin Sesko in the summer, but which club will be happier with their new striker? 🤔

Benjamin Sesko has been outscored by Newcastle's Nick Woltemade so far this season…

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However, Sesko was unable to build on his two goals this season, meaning his last goal is still the one against Sunderland in October.

Amorim clearly ran out of patience and Sesko was replaced on the hour mark for Joshua Zirkzee.

Ruben Amorim trusts Jack Fletcher

Last week, Amorim lashed out at United’s academy players, saying that there is a problem with “entitlement” in youngsters.

However, Jack Fletcher has clearly impressed Amorim and earned his debut against Villa last week. The 18-year-old came on at half-time for his second Premier League appearance, replacing Mason Mount.

Jack Fletcher played in a slightly advanced role alongside Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte, and he can expect to stick around within the first team during Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo’s absence.

Man United Boxing Day record improves

United boast an incredible Boxing Day record in the Premier League with 53 wins in this festive fixture.

Last time United faced Newcastle on Boxing Day the Red Devils claimed all three points. Amorim was able to improve the Boxing Day record and pick up an important three points.